Batting first, Pakistan managed only 168 for 8, Ayub and Abrar restricted Australia to 146 in the series openerPakistan's Saim Ayub plays a shot during the first Twenty20 international cricket match between Pakistan and Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on January 29, 2026. Chasing a target of 169, Australia were restricted to 146 for eight in their allotted 20 overs, with five batters failing to reach double figures. Australia found a crucial breakthrough when Adam Zampa dismissed Ayub in his first over, a moment that swung the contest back in the hosts’ favour. Zampa struck again soon after, removing Agha for a 27-ball 39, as Pakistan struggled to maintain the tempo through the middle overs. Zampa was the standout with the ball, finishing with four wickets, while Bartlett and debutant Mahli Beardman claimed two apiece.